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DC Universe Online going free-to-play

DC Universe Online is the latest MMO to join the free to play craze. Beginning in "late October," Sony Online Entertainment's online action game will be free to download on both PC and PS3.

DC Universe Online is the latest MMO to join the free-to-play craze. Beginning in "late October," Sony Online Entertainment's online action game will be free to download on both PC and PS3. As with every other F2P game, there will be multiple tiers of membership following the transition.

Free players will be able to get access to "current gameplay," which includes Gotham City, Metropolis, and "all current raids and alerts." You'll be able to create two characters, join a league, and will be able purchase more content, such as DLC expansions and additional character slots.

"When we launched DC Universe Online, we introduced a very different brand of massive online game driven by fast action combat to PC and PS3 gamers and with that, we discovered a new type of online gamer," John Smedley, President of Sony Online Entertainment said in a prepared statement. "We've listened to our community, and we've determined that the free-to-play model is the best fit for DC Universe Online." He then pointed to SOE's experience with their other F2P games, Free Realms and Clone Wars Adventures.

There will be two tiers of service beyond Free. "Premium" membership is available to anyone that has spent at least $5 on paid content. Premium members will get additional character slots, additional inventory slots, and higher cash limits. DLC is not included.

Finally, "Legendary" membership will continue to be available for $14.99 a month, and includes all DLC packs "at no cost," more than 15 character slots, more than 80 inventory slots, and the ability to create unrestricted-sized leagues, and "many other benefits."